Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
4. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
9. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
10. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Per serving:
Calories: 450
Fat: 37g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 1200mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Half and half or milk can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Other types of cheese, such as Gouda or Swiss, can be used instead of cheddar.
Variations:
- Add cooked diced chicken or ham for a heartier soup.
- Use kale or collard greens instead of spinach.
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any accidents.
- Stir the soup frequently while cooking to prevent burning.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
- Croutons
- Shredded cheese
- Bacon bits
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Creamy spinach and cheese soup is a modern twist on classic cream of spinach soup, which has been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Cheesy
- Savory
- Garlicky
- Oniony
Serving suggestions:
Serve the soup as a comforting and satisfying meal on its own or as a starter to a larger meal.
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